Supreme Court Allows LMV License Holders to Operate Commercial Vehicles
The Supreme Court has ruled that drivers with a Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) license can legally operate transport vehicles weighing up to 7,500 kilograms.
The decision, made by a five-judge Constitution bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, provides significant relief for thousands of LMV drivers who faced job insecurity due to legal and training requirements tied to specific vehicle categories.
Major Impact on Insurance Claims and Licensing Rules
The ruling affects insurance companies that had previously denied claims for accidents involving vehicles within this weight limit if the driver held only an LMV license. With the court’s clarification, insurance claims for LMV license holders driving vehicles under the 7,500 kg threshold will be streamlined. The court also suggested reforms to update licensing laws, stating, “The licensing regime cannot remain static, and we hope suitable amendments will address existing gaps.”
Road Safety Not Compromised, Says Court
In its 126-page judgment, the bench highlighted that road safety is a broader concern, citing causes of accidents that include non-compliance with seat belt rules, mobile phone use, and driving under the influence. Emphasizing the need for drivers to act responsibly, the bench quoted comedian George Carlin’s observation on driving attitudes, noting, “Biases often shape public perceptions more than data.”
The court clarified that additional licensing requirements apply only to vehicles exceeding 7,500 kg, such as heavy goods and passenger carriers. It concluded that permitting LMV drivers to operate within the legal weight limit aligns with both safety and livelihood concerns, helping to maintain road safety standards without restricting employment opportunities for LMV license holders.
